The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen), released in July 2015, stands as a luxury statement piece in the wearable technology market. Featuring an 18-karat gold frame, this model was designed for users who sought a premium smartwatch with unparalleled craftsmanship and high-end materials. As the most luxurious version of the original Apple Watch lineup, the Edition model combined style, functionality, and advanced features, offering a mix of cutting-edge technology and fine craftsmanship.
Weighing in at 55 grams, the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen) is built with a Sapphire crystal front, a ceramic back, and a stunning gold frame available in both yellow and rose gold variants. This smartwatch features the Retina OLED display, heart rate sensors, and a range of fitness and health tracking capabilities. In this article, we will dive into the full specifications of the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen), including camera, design, display, performance, battery, and durability.
Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen) Full Watch Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 2015 |
| Weight | 55g |
| Dimensions | 38.6 x 33.3 x 10.5 mm (1.52 x 1.31 x 0.41 in) |
| Build | Glass front (Sapphire crystal), ceramic back, 18-karat yellow/rose gold frame |
| OS | watchOS 1.0 (upgradable to watchOS 4.3.2) |
| Chipset | Apple S1 (28 nm) |
| CPU | 520 MHz Cortex-A7 |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX543 |
| Storage | 8GB internal, 512MB RAM |
| SIM | No |
| Water Resistance | IPX7 water-resistant up to 1 meter for 30 minutes |
| Display Type | Retina OLED, 450 nits (peak) |
| Display Size | 1.5 inches |
| Display Resolution | 340 x 272 pixels (~290 ppi density) |
| Protection | Sapphire crystal glass |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 LE, NFC |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion 205 mAh (0.78 Wh), non-removable |
| Charging | Wireless |
| Compatibility | Compatible with Apple iPhone 5 or newer |
| Price | About 11,000 EUR |
Camera
The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen) does not feature a camera, aligning with the design approach of other first-generation Apple Watches, which focused more on notifications, fitness tracking, and overall functionality rather than media capture. The lack of a camera is reflective of its intended role as a companion device to the iPhone, designed to enhance productivity, health tracking, and communication without the need for media creation.
Design and Display
The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen) is crafted with luxury in mind, featuring a stunning 18-karat yellow or rose gold frame, making it one of the most prestigious smartwatches on the market at the time. The watch’s 1.5-inch Retina OLED display provides sharp visuals with a resolution of 340 x 272 pixels (~290 ppi), and the Sapphire crystal glass front ensures exceptional durability and scratch resistance. The 450 nits peak brightness makes the display easy to read, even under bright sunlight.
The design includes a ceramic back that adds to the overall premium feel of the device. The Apple Watch Edition is also equipped with a 3D Touch display, which allows users to press on the screen for additional options, enhancing the overall user experience.
Performance
The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen) is powered by the Apple S1 chip, featuring a 520 MHz Cortex-A7 processor and a PowerVR SGX543 GPU. This chipset allows for smooth performance when managing notifications, fitness tracking, and app usage. The 512MB of RAM ensures that the device can handle day-to-day operations with ease, though the performance may not match that of newer Apple Watch models.
The device operates on watchOS 1.0, which is upgradable to watchOS 4.3.2, enabling users to install and use a wide range of apps directly on their wrist. Despite its age, the Apple S1 chip remains capable for most tasks, making this model suitable for users who prioritize luxury and style.
Battery and Charging
The Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen) features a 205mAh battery that provides up to 18 hours of use on a single charge. This battery life is standard for smartwatches of its era, and users will need to charge the watch daily if they are using it extensively for fitness tracking, notifications, and other tasks. The device supports wireless charging, providing convenience by eliminating the need for physical cables. Charging is done through a magnetic charging pad, making the process simple and efficient.
Durability
With an IPX7 water resistance rating, the Apple Watch Edition 38mm (1st Gen) is resistant to splashes, rain, and sweat. It can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, making it suitable for general everyday wear and light workouts. However, it is not designed for swimming or submerging in deeper water.
The 18-karat gold frame and Sapphire crystal glass add durability to the design, ensuring that the watch can withstand scratches and minor drops. Although not as rugged as sport-focused wearables, the Apple Watch Edition offers a level of durability appropriate for daily use, while also maintaining its luxurious aesthetic.
